Exploring Montenegro’s coastline

Visit Cetinje Monastery and pay your respects to St Peter

Day 1 in Cetinje

Sitting at the foot of the Lovcen mountains, Cetinje is the former royal capital of Montenegro.

Its streets are a mix of small cottages and imposing mansions, which previously housed European ambassadors. Today, many of these mansions have been converted to museums and galleries, but most visitors head for Cetinje Monastery, built in 1701 and home to relics of St Peter of Cetinje. St Peter became a monk aged 12 and then governor of Montenegro, famously defeating Napoleon in the battle of Dalmatia.

Go wine tasting in Virpazar

Day 2–3 in Virpazar

Considered the main gateway to Lake Skadar National Park, the tiny village of Virpazar was once an important trading port.

Look for the imposing fortress built by Turkish invaders on the hill towering over the town. Modern-day Virpazar is a great place to sample Montenegrin wine, with several vineyards and tasting rooms around the town.

Explore the ruins of Stari Bar

Day 4 in Stari Bar

High up on the edge of a bluff near Mount Rumija lies the ruins of Stari Bar – the original town of Bar, which is now a port city down by the water.

Although some houses and shops have set up in the old city, it remains largely in ruins after being hit by an earthquake in 1979. Despite this, it’s a fascinating place to stroll around the old fortress walls and grand buildings.

Popular sights include the remains of a 13th Century monastery, a Turkish bathhouse, the foundations of St George’s Cathedral and the impressive 17th Century aqueduct.

See pelicans at Lake Skadar

Day 5 in Lake Skadar National Park

Skadar is the Balkans largest lake, with two-thirds sitting in Montenegro and the rest in Albania.

A popular area for those seeking outdoor adventures, the surrounding national park is the perfect place to escape the heat of the city, with awe-inspiring mountains, island monasteries and pretty villages such as Virpazar.

The area is known for it's bird habitats and and you can look out for rare Dalmatian pelicans on the lake’s water – the world’s heaviest flying bird.

Get adventurous Lovćen National Park

Day 6 in Lovćen National Park

Located in the Dinara Alps, Lovćen National Park incorporates a range of habitats with a variety of plant and animal species residing in the park.

Lovćen National Park is most famous for the towering mausoleum of St Peter at the Jezerski vrh peak, but it’s worth exploring the park adventure activities, from ziplining and quad-biking for thrill-seekers to hiking and cycling for the more sedate.

Explore the Bay of Kotor’s medieval towns

Day 7–8 in Bay of Kotor

Montenegro is a country full of beautiful views, but the Bay of Kotor’s waterfront might just be the best.

Spend a couple of days meandering through its towns, from the restored palaces of Perast to Kotor’s Venetian old town with sites including the three city gates, town square and clock tower, but the highlight is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. Nowhere combines ancient history and stunning scenery better.

An UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bay of Kotor's winding coastline offers ample opportunities for hikers and bikers, with quiet roads generally devoid of traffic. Head up to the observation deck at Tivat for panoramic views of the bay and hike the 1300 steps to the Kotor Fortress.